Welcome to It’s Shanaka
Hi, I’m Shanaka (sounds like Shonica or Shanukkah) but you can call me Shaney (Sean-knee). I'm a mom of three, bonus mom of one, mama to 2 shelter rescue pups, and the voice behind It’s Shanaka. This blog is where I share my love of family friendly recipes, Disney and Universal magic, travel adventures, DIY projects, and everyday Virginia (and east coast) life.
I started blogging almost 2 decades ago as a creative outlet, and it has grown into a place where I connect with readers who want to add a little joy and sparkle to their daily lives. Whether you’re here for an easy weeknight dinner idea or fun theme park inspired dessert, tips for planning a stress-free vacation, or a DIY project you can do with confidence, you’re in the right place.
A Passion for Family, Travel & Food
I believe life is best lived when we mix a little magic into the everyday mess. That’s why you’ll find:
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Delicious Recipes – from sweet treats like Disney-inspired churro cupcakes to quick dinners for busy parents.
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Travel Adventures – family travel tips, theme park guides, and Virginia local gems.
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DIY Inspiration – easy projects and seasonal fun you can do at home.
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Disney & Universal Studios Magic – because I’m a lifelong Disney adult who still gets excited about Mickey-shaped snacks and will always be a Hufflepuff at heart.
I also work as a travel advisor with Mousekeplanner, helping families plan unforgettable Disney, Universal, cruise vacations + more. It’s the perfect way to combine my love for organization, theme parks, and creating stress-free experiences for busy parents. Interested in a free quote, looking for a travel planner to book your next trip or have a travel question? You can email me: shanaka@mousekeplanner.com
Why I write
This blog is more than recipes and travel guides... it’s my story. I’ve navigated motherhood, college during a pandemic, career changes, and even a few health scares. Writing here lets me share not just tips and tutorials, but also pieces of my life that I hope inspire you to find the magic in your own journey.
It’s Shanaka Fan Favorites & Shanaka’s Favorites
I have talked about many different topics on my blog since I first started writing blog posts back in 2007. I started out as a pregnancy journal and a mama that shared about cloth diapering. After that, I moved on to coupon/deal blogging. I was feeling a bit burnt out on trying to keep up with all the deal/coupon posts while having two little boys at home so I moved my blog niche to lifestyle blogging. If you have been a reader from the beginning of this wild ride then you know I was married then divorced and now happily remarried. I also went from a stay at home mom of two to a working mom of 3. I appreciate all of the shares and comments on my posts. Here is a list of the most popular blog posts according to my Google Analytics...
Dairy Queen Copycat Hot Dog Chili Sauce Recipe
Churro Cupcake Recipe (Disney recipe churros)
Things to do in Myrtle Beach, SC
Couples Retreat in Wilmington, NC
Brand Partnerships
Are you a brand and want to know why you should work with It’s Shanaka? I know sometimes it’s all about the numbers. If you are looking for stats I can provide you with a media kit that has all that you’ll need to help decide if we are worthy of a blogger/brand connection. What makes me worth working with? There are many, many blogs out there. When I connect with a brand or cause that I believe in, I do my best to give them my all. I share real photos and honest opinions. I enjoy telling relatable and authentic stories. You may have caught my smoothie recipe feature on WSLS Channel 10's Daytime Blue Ridge tv show.
It’s Shanaka ambassadorships and brand related work:
Best Buy Influencer Network- 2013-2019
Chick-fil-A mom-2018
Dryel- 2018
Roto-Rooter- 2017
Karina Frockstar (Karina dresses) ambassador- 2014-2015
Busch Gardens Ambassador- 2014
ZonePerfect Blog Forward blogger- 2014
Silhouette blogger program- 2013-2015
Popsicle Mom- 2013
Swimways Swim Steps Swim Team mom- 2013
Little Tikes ambassador- 2013
Revolt Fitness blogger- 2013
LifeLock brand ambassador- 2012
Shaklee 180 blogger- 2012
Gorton’s blogger- 2012
Clairitin Mom crew- 2012
Carmex blogger- 2012-2015
US Family Guide Moms Connect member- 2012-current
Child Hunger Ends Here blogger ambassador- 2011
Purex Insider- 2010
I have worked with Disney, Best Buy, Chevrolet, Wilton, Tyson, Oriental Trading, JORD wood watches, Target, Dixie Crystals, Adams Best, Crest, Elmer’s, Dial, Shutterfly, Tiny Prints, Mega Bloks, Melissa and Doug, Chasing Fireflies, Kids II, and numerous other companies, PR reps, travel boards, and handmade businesses since 2008.
Join Me on This Journey
Life is a beautiful, chaotic adventure, and I’m here to share the tips, tricks, and stories that have helped me along the way. Whether you’re seeking a new recipe to try, planning your next vacation, looking for travel insights, It’s Shanaka is here to inspire and assist.
Let’s embark on this journey together discovering, creating, and making the most of every moment.
Thanks for stopping by! I’d love to hear from you whether you’re a brand looking to collaborate, a fellow Disney fan, theme park lover, or a reader trying one of my recipes.
Email me: itsshanaka@gmail.com
Follow along on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
Together, let’s make everyday life a little more magical.
